Geologic
Resources
In
the Pacific Area the National Park Service has long relied upon the U.S. Geological
Survey to carry on relevant geologic research and monitoring. Indeed, their early
geologist, Thomas Jagger and his studies of volcanism at Kilauea, was the major
force in establishing the first National Parks in the islands. Today, the center
for the USGS studies is the Hawaii Volcano Observatory (HVO) within Hawaii Volcanoes
National Park (not coincidentally in a building funded, designed, and constructed
by the NPS for the USGS).
Hawaiian
Volcano Observatory perched on rim of Kilauea Caldera
HVO
enjoys a world-wide reputation as a leader in the study of active volcanism. Due
to their usually benign natures, Kilauea and Mauna Loa, the most active volcanoes
on the Island of Hawai`i, can be studied up close in relative safety.
HVO
is part of the Volcano Hazards Program and conducts research on the volcanoes
of Hawai`i and works with emergency-response officials to protect people and property
from earthquakes and volcano-related hazards. They work to reduce the risks from
these hazards in the following ways.
Monitoring
volcanoes and earthquakes to track their behavior before, during, and after eruptions
and to determine the nature of their activity.
Studying the eruption
histories of Hawai`i's volcanoes in order to achieve a long-term perspective that
can help to anticipate their future behavior and identify potentially hazardous
areas.
Communicating results of our studies with the public, emergency
managers, educators, and students through the media, presentations and workshops,
field trips, and the USGS Volunteer Program.
Visit the HVO
website.
Geologic
studies in the Pacific Islands parks.
HPI-CESU
home University
of Hawaii -
National Park Service
